How to properly prepare your reed before playing and what to do when you are finished to preserve it.
When we start learning the oboe, we learn the basics of oboe maintenance: assembling the instrument, greasing the cork, cleaning the instrument, storing the instrument, etc. We also meet the reed, integral part and necessary to play the oboe. It is the reed that creates the sound of the oboe. With the air sent into the reed by the oboist and therefore, by its two reed blades vibrating against each other, the reed, once inserted into the piperelle of the oboe, will emit the singular sound of the oboe.
For this vibration to work, it is first necessary to soak the oboe reed in water, so that the reed is well moistened so that it can vibrate well.
Tip 1: Find the right container.
It is important to find a container of good dimensions. For me, the ideal size of the container turns out to be the one I can carry in my oboe case or at least, in the small pocket of my backpack. Also, a container made of plastic has several advantages: easily transportable, resistant to water and moisture, available in several sizes and above all, does not break.
Tip 2: Water quantity, water temperature and soaking duration.
As illustrated and mentioned in the image above, once the reed is put in the water, the water level should not exceed, nor touch the nylon thread. This can create moisture and soak the water, which is neither necessary nor desirable.
Once the reed is in the water, it can stay there for about 1 minute. This gives the reed enough time to be well moist and relaxed to vibrate well.
Warm water is preferred. Too hot water will open the reed too much and cold water, conversely, will not allow the reed to find its optimal opening. See images and explanations above.
Tip 3: If the reed's opening is too wide?
If, after soaking the reed, the opening of the reed is too wide, you can press the reed blades to bring them closer to each other. This will help close the opening. See image and explanation above.
This step should be done carefully, if you press the reed too far and not the end of the reed (near its opening), it could crack. Press gently and on the end of the reed.
Tip 4: Storage of the reed.
At the end of the practice and when putting the reed back in its case, it is important to remove the excess water in the reed to avoid too much moisture in the plastic tube or its case. This will prevent reed rot and increase the life of the reed. See image and explanation above.
With these tips, you can bring the reed to its full potential during your personal practices, rehearsals and concerts. You will feel much more comfortable playing a reed that vibrates well! You will also significantly increase its lifespan.
Jean-Sébastien Blais
Image credits : Roxane Michaud
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